Your Symptoms: Neurological Issues or Autonomic Dysfunction?

Q: Your Symptoms: Neurological Issues or Autonomic Dysfunction?

Hello： Your symptoms may suggest "migraine with aura." This type of headache lasts from 4 to 72 hours. <br>The characteristics of the headache include unilateral pain, which may feel throbbing or pulsating, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light

Is it a brain issue or autonomic nervous system dysfunction?

Hello, Dr.
Jiang: Recently, I have been feeling unwell, and the following symptoms have been occurring frequently:
1.
Sometimes under bright lights, I perceive a flicker (as if the light is malfunctioning).
I have a history of floaters, but a recent examination at the hospital confirmed that my retina is fine; however, my eyes are prone to fatigue.
I wonder if this symptom could be related to the brain or the optic nerve.
Occasionally, I see bright flashes, mostly blue, but they disappear after blinking a few times.

2.
I experience localized numbness at the back of my head, similar to the tingling sensation I feel when I am anxious, but this has been happening more frequently.
Sometimes it occurs at the nape of my neck, and other times it affects my entire head, accompanied by a slight pulsating pain that follows my heartbeat.
Is this likely due to anxiety, or should I be concerned about a potential brain issue?
3.
I occasionally feel slightly dizzy when walking or standing, as if I am experiencing a mild earthquake, but it does not reach the level of severe vertigo.
What could be the possible causes of this? I tend to be easily anxious and have a tendency to worry about my health, so I am uncertain if I am being overly sensitive or if there is an underlying condition.
I hope you can provide insight into the possible causes of these symptoms.

Fan Fan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/31

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Your symptoms may suggest "migraine with aura." This type of headache lasts from 4 to 72 hours.
The characteristics of the headache include unilateral pain, which may feel throbbing or pulsating, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light and sound.
Additionally, activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or head movements can exacerbate the pain.
Many patients require analgesics or preventive medications for relief.
Besides pharmacological treatment, lifestyle adjustments are also crucial.
Establishing good habits, maintaining a regular schedule, ensuring adequate sleep without oversleeping, avoiding overexertion, and managing stress are important.
Some individuals may have specific triggers, such as certain foods, alcohol, drastic temperature changes, or moving in and out of air-conditioned environments during hot weather; avoiding these situations can help prevent migraines.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/10/31

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your symptoms and concerns. Based on what you've described, it seems you're experiencing a range of physical sensations and discomfort that could be linked to either neurological issues or autonomic dysfunction. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and recommendations.

1. Visual Symptoms: You mentioned seeing flashes of light and experiencing visual fatigue, which could be related to your existing condition of floaters (myodesopsia). While your recent eye examination ruled out retinal issues, the perception of flashes or colors, especially blue, can sometimes be associated with visual migraines or even stress-related visual disturbances. It’s essential to monitor these symptoms and discuss them with an ophthalmologist or a neurologist if they persist or worsen.

2. Head and Scalp Sensations: The tingling or "pins and needles" sensation in your scalp, particularly at the back of your head, can be attributed to several factors. Stress and anxiety often lead to muscle tension, which can cause discomfort and a sensation of tightness or tingling in the head. However, if these sensations are accompanied by pulsating pain that aligns with your heartbeat, it might warrant further investigation to rule out any neurological conditions, such as migraines or tension-type headaches.
3. Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing or walking, can be linked to various factors, including anxiety, dehydration, or even orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing). Given your tendency toward anxiety, it’s possible that your symptoms are exacerbated by stress. However, it’s crucial to ensure that there are no underlying medical issues contributing to these sensations.

Recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be beneficial to consult with a neurologist who can perform a thorough evaluation, including a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies (like an MRI) if deemed necessary. This can help rule out any serious conditions and provide peace of mind.

- Manage Anxiety and Stress: Since you mentioned a tendency towards anxiety, consider exploring stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). These approaches can help you manage anxiety symptoms and may alleviate some of the physical sensations you’re experiencing.

- Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure you are staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise, as these factors can significantly impact both physical and mental health. Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene can help improve your overall well-being.

- Follow-Up on Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary to track when these sensations occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety and stress, it’s essential to rule out any underlying neurological issues. Seeking professional guidance will help you navigate your symptoms more effectively and find appropriate treatment options. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns early can lead to better outcomes. Wishing you the best on your journey to understanding and managing your health!

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